The Rugby Football League has acknowledged that an error was made during Bradford Bulls' narrow loss to St Helens.

Joe Shorrocks was sin-binned in the second half of Saturday's Super League clash at the BrewDog Stadium, only to spend less than 10 minutes off the field.

According to the clock on Sky Sports' coverage, Shorrocks returned to the action around 90 seconds early.

Although they did not score during that time, Saints went on to snatch a 26-22 win in the dying minutes courtesy of Deon Cross' try.

A statement from the governing body read: "The RFL has acknowledged that off-field officials did not correctly follow protocols regarding the sin-binning of St Helens player Joe Shorrocks, who did not serve a full 10 minutes of game time in the sin-bin.

"Full facts are being established to ensure there is no repeat."